Happy Independence Day!

[SunsetBengal]

Quote:So there seems to be a lot of negativity going around about celebrating independence day.

I dont give a **** what your political perspectives are. This is not a “white” holiday or “oppressive”. These types of perceptions are just the byproducts of individuals who carry negative predispositions for other people based on ignorance.

To claim that July fourth isn’t for every American is a small-minded statement. Think bigger picture here. Is our history wrought with atrocities? Yes, as is every known nation’s.

But had our country not declared its independence and built the constitution with the people in mind and the ability to amend, and therefore evolve along with society, would everyone have the rights they do today? No.

I would implore everyone to take the time to differentiate patriotism from nationalism today. Our government is not synonymous with our country, it is merely an entity created for the purpose of serving the people.

Of, by, and for the people- means that as citizens we are the country. So perhaps you may consider patriotism as having love for one another.

I will never blindly follow political leaders or government agencies. But I would absolutely give the shirt off my back to any American. The government doesn’t care about people, but that shouldn’t mean we stop caring for each other.

I love every one of you. Go out and be a contributing member of your community. Inspire someone. Be a role model. Be proud not of our historical travesties, but for the potential we hold as a people for our furture. And yes, Black Lives Matter.

-Written by an American Soldier 07/04/2020